Shoots

Shoots are the above-ground parts of a plant that grow from buds, comprising stems and their leaves, and sometimes inflorescences. They represent the primary site of photosynthesis and new growth, differentiating from roots and storage organs. Shoots originate in the shoot apex and can develop into branches, flowering shoots, or leaf-bearing twigs.

Growth is driven by hormones such as auxins and cytokinins. Apical dominance by the shoot tip often suppresses growth of lateral shoots. When the apex is removed or environmental conditions change, dormant buds may activate, producing bushier plants. Shoots can be classified as primary (from seed germination) and secondary or lateral (from buds on existing shoots).

Pruning, training, and harvesting are common horticultural practices that manage shoots. Shoots are also used in vegetative propagation, through cuttings or layering; shoots with buds can be rooted to form new plants. In agriculture, shoots are sometimes subjected to selection and breeding to alter vigor, branching patterns, and yield in crops.

Other uses of the term shoot include film and photography: a shoot is a period of filming or a completed filming session; to shoot means to capture footage with a camera. The word appears in phrases such as shooting schedule, and shoots can be scheduled over multiple days.